Seven killed in shelling of UNICEF compound in Sudan’s al-Fasher
September 25, 2025 (KHARTOUM) – At least seven displaced civilians sheltering in a UNICEF compound in the besieged city of al-Fasher were killed by shelling on Tuesday, the U.N. children’s agency said in a statement.
The attack is part of a “series of events” that highlights the extreme dangers facing civilians and aid efforts in the capital of North Darfur state.
According to a statement from UNICEF Sudan Representative Sheldon Yett, the main building within the compound came under “repeated attack” on September 24, killing at least seven and injuring others who had sought refuge there.
The shelling followed an incident on September 20, when armed individuals entered the same compound, seizing communications equipment and vehicles. “In the days that followed, the armed individuals dismantled and made alterations to the vehicles, which were clearly marked with UNICEF logos,” the statement said.
While UNICEF has been unable to occupy the compound since March 2024, the agency stressed that the premises and assets remain protected under U.N. privileges and immunities. The building was reportedly being used as a shelter for civilians displaced by the fighting as the city remains under siege by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Since August, the RSF has intensified its shelling of al-Fasher with artillery and drones. The bombardment has coincided with large-scale ground attacks during which its forces have been accused of committing horrific violations, including mass killings, ethnically motivated violence, and sexual assault.
The paramilitary group, which has been attempting to seize the city since May 2024, has also destroyed markets, shops, water sources, and health facilities, plunging the city into an escalating humanitarian crisis.
“UNICEF calls on all parties to respect and protect civilians and civilian objects, humanitarian premises, personnel, and assets,” Yett stated. He added that the attacks jeopardise aid for an “estimated 130,000 children who remain besieged in the city.”
“We urge full adherence to international humanitarian law and the principles that guide humanitarian action.”